6 Traits Corporate Legal Teams Value
Making the move from private practice to an in-house legal team isn’t just a change of desk—it’s a shift in mindset. Corporate legal departments look for more than technical expertise; they value lawyers who can think commercially, work hand-in-hand with the business, and offer practical solutions under real-world pressures. This guide breaks down the six traits that matter most to hiring managers inside corporate teams, helping you understand what sets successful in-house counsel apart and how to position yourself for the role.
Thinking of moving in-house? Here’s what actually matters on the inside.
1. Commercial Thinking
- It’s not just about what the law says, it’s about what the business needs.
- In-house lawyers must balance legal risk with commercial outcomes.
2. Working With The Business
- You’re part of the business now, not just an external advisor.
- Collaborate daily with sales, finance, HR, product, and leadership.
- Advice needs to be aligned, actionable, and fast.
3 Finding Practical Solution
Spotting risk is just step one. The real value is in proposing implementable, business-friendly fixes, to help the business move forward.
4. Communicating Across Teams
You’ll work closely with non-lawyers, often under pressure. Simplicity matters more than legalese. Build trust with clarity. Move with purpose.
5 Being Flexible
In-house roles are broad, expect variety. One day it’s contracts, next day it’s IР, compliance, or governance. Breadth and adaptability are key strengths.
6 Cost Awareness
Budgets matter and so does urgency. Your advice needs to be timely, business-first, and cost-efficient. Long memos? Not always welcome.
“In-house roles are less about being perfect and more about being useful, timely, and business-aligned.
At Human Elevation, we help lawyers transition into impactful in-house careers. We know what legal teams are really looking for and how to help you show up ready.
